Lawmaker wants open investigation at UW

A state lawmaker is calling for more transparency in the investigation of a UW-Madison official who abruptly resigned earlier this month.

Last Friday, John Chadima, a senior associate athletic director, was placed on leave and ended up resigning following allegations of misconduct. The incident that led to the decision reportedly took place while the Badgers were in Pasadena for the Rose Bowl, although UW officials have not disclosed what happened.

State Representative Steve Nass (R-Whitewater) says the process being used by the UW-Madison to investigate the incident initially appeared appropriate and reasonable. However, now Nass says it appears the inquiry, called by Interim Chancellor David Ward, may be more of an attempt to contain information from the public and control institutional damage.

Nass says the UW should publicly disclose the nature of the allegations.

In a statement released Wednesday afternoon, Ward said he understands the case is raising a lot of questions but “it is imperative the committee be allowed to complete its work.” Ward says he will provide as much transparency as possible and also defended the panel reviewing the incident, saying they have “the highest integrity.”